If an appliance suddenly stops working, a blown fuse is often the culprit. It’s cheap, easy to check, and fixing it yourself can save you a call‑out fee. This guide walks you through why fuses blow, how to spot a bad one, and the safest way to replace it in the most common household machines.
Fuses protect electrical circuits by breaking the flow when current gets too high. Overloads happen when a motor works too hard, a heating element heats up beyond its limit, or there’s a short circuit inside the device. Most modern appliances use replaceable cartridge or glass fuses that you can pop out and swap. If the appliance never turns on, the fuse is the first thing to check before assuming a bigger problem.
Gather the right tools. You’ll need a screwdriver, a flashlight, and a replacement fuse that matches the voltage and amp rating printed on the old one. Never guess – using the wrong rating can cause fire or damage.
Washer or dryer. Unplug the machine, locate the fuse panel (usually behind the door latch or underneath the front panel), and remove the cover. Pull out the blown fuse – it will look blackened or have a broken metal strip. Insert the new fuse, snap the cover back, and plug the appliance in. Test a short cycle to confirm it runs.
Oven or cooktop. Turn off the circuit breaker for safety. The fuse is often hidden behind a rear panel or inside the control box. Remove the panel, note the fuse orientation, and replace it with one of the same rating. Re‑assemble, switch the breaker back on, and check if the heating element now powers up.
Refrigerator. Most fridges use a small glass fuse in the compressor compartment. After unplugging, remove the rear grill, find the fuse socket, and swap the fuse. If the fridge still doesn’t run, the compressor may have other issues, but a fresh fuse often restores power.
Always double‑check the amp rating – it’s usually printed as something like “5A 240V”. If you can’t read the old fuse, look at the appliance’s manual or the label inside the fuse box.
Once the new fuse is in place, plug the appliance back in and run a quick test. If it works, you’ve saved time and money. If it still won’t start, the problem may be deeper, such as a failed motor or control board, and a professional should take a look.
Remember, safety comes first. If you ever feel unsure about handling electrical parts, give South Shields Appliance Repair Services a call. Our certified technicians can replace fuses quickly, check for underlying faults, and get your home running smoothly again.
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